20 Delicious Japanese Cream Puff Recipes with Unique Fillings

Discover the Delicious World of Japanese Cream Puffs: 20 Unique Recipes to Try!

Japanese cream puffs, also known as “cream-filled melonpan” in Japan, are a popular dessert that combines the flaky, buttery crust of a croissant with a light and airy whipped cream filling. But what makes these treats truly special is the wide variety of unique fillings you can use to give them an extra boost of flavor. From classic matcha green tea to more unexpected flavors like ube purple yam or hojicha roasted tea, there’s a Japanese cream puff recipe out there for everyone.

In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious Japanese cream puff recipes with unique fillings that will take your taste buds on a journey around the world. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats like strawberry shortcake or savory flavors like caramel miso, we’ve got you covered. So grab a cup of green tea and let’s get started!

Matcha Green Tea Cream Puffs

Experience the perfect blend of Japanese tradition and French patisserie with these Matcha Green Tea Cream Puffs. Delicate, flaky pastry filled with a creamy matcha-infused custard.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon matcha powder
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles or squares).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow puffs to cool completely before filling with matcha cream.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Black Sesame Cream Puffs

Experience the rich flavors of Japan with these creamy and crispy black sesame cream puffs, infused with the nutty flavor of black sesame seeds.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons black sesame paste
– 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
8. Allow to cool completely before filling with black sesame cream.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ube Purple Yam Cream Puffs

Experience the unique flavor of ube (purple yam) in a delightful cream puff pastry. These sweet and savory treats are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles or squares).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each puff.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow puffs to cool completely before filling with ube halaya and whipped cream.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Strawberry Shortcake Cream Puffs

These cream puffs are a creative twist on the classic strawberry shortcake, featuring flaky pastry filled with whipped cream and topped with sweet strawberries.

Ingredients:

– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon strawberry jam

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
2. Cut into 3-inch squares and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Fold edges to form a triangle, pressing gently to seal.
3. Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Add confectioners’ sugar and mix until combined.
5. Top warm puffs with whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and drizzle with strawberry jam.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Hojicha Roasted Tea Cream Puffs

Elevate your pastry game with these elegant Hojicha Roasted Tea Cream Puffs, where the subtle nuttiness of Japanese-roasted green tea meets the flaky texture of buttery puff pastry.

Ingredients:

– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon Hojicha roasted tea powder (or to taste)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
3. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, granulated sugar, and kosher salt until stiff peaks form. Add Hojicha roasted tea powder and fold gently.
4. Spoon the cream mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
6. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Red Bean Paste Cream Puffs

Savor the combination of chewy cream puffs and rich red bean paste filling, a delightful twist on traditional pastry.

Ingredients:

– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup red bean paste (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or circles).
3. In a small bowl, mix heavy cream, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of red bean paste onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the filling.
5. Place another piece of pastry on top to form a sandwich, pressing edges gently to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow puffs to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Citrus Yuzu Cream Puffs

Elevate your pastry game with these citrusy cream puffs infused with the bright, tangy flavor of yuzu. Perfect for a brunch or dessert party, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated yuzu zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed yuzu juice
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, eggs, yuzu zest, and yuzu juice until smooth.
3. Add flour and whisk until just combined.
4. Pipe onto prepared baking sheet in small rounds. Tap gently to remove air bubbles.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Tiramisu-Inspired Cream Puffs

Elevate your pastry game with these creamy, coffee-infused puffs that pay homage to the classic Italian dessert. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a dinner party or as a sweet surprise.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, butter, coffee powder, and vanilla extract.
4. Spoon the creamy mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Seal edges by pressing with a fork and cutting a small slit in the top for steam release.
7. Place puffs on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Earl Grey Tea Cream Puffs

Earl Grey Tea Cream Puffs Recipe Summary:
Elevate your pastry game with these delicate and flavorful cream puffs infused with the soothing essence of Earl Grey tea.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon Earl Grey tea leaves
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add softened butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg yolks, and Earl Grey tea leaves until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry mixture and mix until a dough forms. Roll out to 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.

Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving. Enjoy!

Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Puffs

Elevate your dessert game with these rich and creamy puffs infused with the perfect balance of chocolate and hazelnut flavors. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles).
3. In a bowl, mix together softened butter and confectioners’ sugar. Add hazelnut spread and chocolate chips; stir until combined.
4. Brush edges of pastry with water. Spoon a small amount of the chocolate-hazelnut mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Fold other half over to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten eggs mixed with a little water). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Allow puffs to cool before filling with whipped cream and serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Sweet Potato Cream Puffs

Sweet Potato Cream Puffs Recipe

Sweet potatoes add a delightful twist to classic cream puffs, with their natural sweetness and creamy texture. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as a dessert for your next gathering.

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mashed sweet potatoes, heavy cream, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares, about 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
4. Place a tablespoon of the sweet potato mixture in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape. Seal edges with a fork.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and lightly golden.

Raspberry Rose Cream Puffs

Delight your senses with these sweet and tangy cream puffs infused with the flavors of fresh raspberries and rose petals.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon dried rose petals
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add heavy cream, egg yolks, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Fold in raspberries and dried rose petals.
6. Spoon mixture onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each puff.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Caramel Miso Cream Puffs

Elevate your pastry game with these sweet and savory cream puffs infused with the rich flavors of caramel and miso. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to desired thickness. Cut into 1-inch squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Sprinkle evenly over pastry squares.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow puffs to cool before filling with a mixture of heavy cream, melted butter, miso paste, and vanilla extract.
6. Drizzle with caramel sauce and serve.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pandan Coconut Cream Puffs

These creamy puffs are infused with the unique flavor of pandan, a staple herb in Southeast Asian cuisine, and paired with rich coconut cream. Perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pandan extract
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 2 large eggs
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, pandan extract, and coconut cream; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place puffs on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Lychee and Vanilla Cream Puffs

A sweet and exotic fusion of flavors, these puffs are perfect for a special occasion or as a treat anytime.

Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup lychee syrup
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into 12 equal squares.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lychee syrup and heavy cream. Brush the mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half over to form a triangle and press edges to seal.
6. Place puffs on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
7. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

White Chocolate Matcha Cream Puffs

Elevate your pastry game with these creamy, dreamy puffs infused with the bright, grassy flavor of matcha and the richness of white chocolate.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– White chocolate chips (about 1 cup)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and matcha powder. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in desired shapes. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow puffs to cool completely. Melt white chocolate chips; drizzle over cooled puffs. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Kinako Soybean Flour Cream Puffs

These cream puffs get a boost of nutty flavor from kinako, soybean flour, and a touch of sweetness from the whipped cream. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tablespoons kinako (soybean flour)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together kinako and sugar. Sprinkle evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around each piece.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow puffs to cool completely. Whip heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
6. Sandwich whipped cream between two puff pieces.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Passion Fruit Cream Puffs

Treat your senses with these tender puffed pastries filled with a creamy passion fruit curd.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons passion fruit puree
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, butter, egg yolks, and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in passion fruit puree.
4. Spoon a small amount of the curd onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges together to seal.
6. Place puffs on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cherry Blossom Cream Puffs

Celebrate the beauty of cherry blossom season with these delicate cream puffs infused with the sweet and subtle flavor of cherry blossom extract. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a springtime gathering or as a special dessert for your loved ones.

Ingredients:

– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cherry blossom extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and cherry blossom extract.
4. Place a spoonful of the sugar mixture in the center of each square. Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle or diamond shape. Press edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with heavy cream and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Allow puffs to cool before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Espresso Cream Puffs with Whipped Cream

Start your day with a boost of energy and flavor by making these scrumptious espresso cream puffs topped with whipped cream. This recipe combines the richness of espresso, cream, and butter to create a delightful treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Whipped cream, for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Add softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Fold in instant espresso powder, granulated sugar, and salt.
4. Pipe the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in desired shapes.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow puffs to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Discover the art of Japanese cream puffs with unique fillings! This collection of 20 recipes offers a world of flavors and textures, from classic green tea and strawberry shortcake to more adventurous options like matcha, hojicha, and kinako soybean flour. Find inspiration in the bright colors and bold flavors of ube purple yam, citrus yuzu, and passion fruit cream puffs. Or, indulge in sweet treats like tiramisu-inspired, white chocolate matcha, and caramel miso cream puffs. Whichever filling you choose, these Japanese cream puffs are sure to delight!